How Kids Use AI

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly becoming woven into the everyday lives of American kids. For advocates in the youth education space, there aren't enough safeguards for the AI platforms kids are using. The 2026 Common Sense Media Census: AI Teens and Tweens is the first in a series of studies intended to track young people’s experiences with AI over time. Common Sense considers the knowledge and experience that kids aged 9 to 17 (or "teens and tweens") have with AI, including how often they use it, what they use it for, and the questions and advice they seek. Ultimately, Common Sense finds that AI use is widespread and serves a range of needs for teens and tweens, from cognitive to emotional, but may not always meet those needs safely or fully.